Elizabeth Tower receives Michael Middleton Special Award & AABC Award at the Civic Trust Awards 2025

We are delighted to announce that the refurbishment of Elizabeth Tower, better known as Big Ben, has received two prestigious awards at the Civic Trust Awards 2025: the Michael Middleton Special Award and the AABC Award.

The Michael Middleton Special Award, established in memory of Michael Middleton CBE, who founded the Civic Trust Awards in 1959, recognises an outstanding restoration project or new build within a conservation area. The AABC Award highlights projects that demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation and make a significant contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment.

The extensive restoration of Elizabeth Tower, which is part of the Grade I listed Palace of Westminster and located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was delivered by a team of experts, including Purcell, Strategic Estates, Sir Robert McAlpine, Lendlease, Currie & Brown and AECOM all dedicated to preserving the Tower’s heritage for future generations.

Our team was responsible for the careful removal of the existing MEP services, the installation of all new MEP services including fabric protection heating, the installation of a new passenger lift and the complete upgrade and replacement of the iconic clock-face lighting.

Malcolm Hankey, Director Blue Light Management and Civic Trust Awards National Judging Panel commented, “This restoration exemplifies the best practices in historic building conservation, harmonising tradition and innovation to preserve a cherished icon for posterity. The project’s meticulous execution and thoughtful approach set a benchmark for future conservation efforts”.

To learn more about the Elizabeth Tower project click here: Elizabeth Tower – S I Sealy